There’s a lot happening at the United Nations (UN). Much of what’s taking place concerns Black America, too. Our struggle is unique, but many of the problems we face are common abroad. Maybe that’s why some of our diasporic kin are raising an important issue.
A letter written on behalf of 54 African nations urged debate around "racially-inspired human rights violations” and “police brutality against people of African descent." The issue was brought to the floor, and the result was a new resolution.
Over 120 speakers addressed racism in the USA and expressed sympathy for the family of George Floyd. His brother had already addressed the UN. This led to condemnation of “racially discriminatory and violent practices perpetrated by law enforcement,” but more is needed.
A UN human rights chief, Michelle Bachelet, has also called for reparations to make amends for slavery. Policing, which is directly linked to slavery, is related too. That’s likely part of the reason she pointed to George Floyd’s killing when doing so. This demands something of us.
We have to stay organized despite the fact some government bodies and officials are showing support. If we weren’t in the streets fighting for our rights, these changes wouldn’t be happening in the first place! Now is the time to make sure we’re committed to struggle for all Black people.